Low Carb Avocado Chicken Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Low Carb Avocado Chicken Salad is a great option for anyone looking to eat healthy without compromising on taste. The creamy avocado pairs wonderfully with the juicy, seasoned chicken, creating a rich and satisfying texture. The addition of crunchy vegetables like cucumber, red onion, and celery provides refreshing contrast. With a tangy dressing to bring it all together, this salad is perfect for meal prep, a light lunch, or a quick dinner. It’s low in carbs, packed with healthy fats, and full of flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced

• 1 ripe avocado, diced

• 1/2 cucumber, diced

• 1/4 red onion, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (or lime juice)

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the chicken: If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, you can quickly cook chicken breasts by pan-searing or boiling them. Once cooked, shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

2. Chop the vegetables: Dice the avocado, cucumber, and celery, and finely chop the red onion. Set aside.

3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon or lime juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt or pepper if needed.

4. Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, diced avocado, cucumber, red onion, and celery. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss to combine until everything is evenly coated.

5. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired, and serve immediately or chill for a few minutes before serving. This salad can be enjoyed as a standalone dish or served on top of lettuce, in lettuce wraps, or with a side of low-carb crackers.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-3

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 10-15 minutes (if cooking chicken)

• Total Time: 10-15 minutes (if using pre-cooked chicken)

Variations

• Add more veggies: You can add other low-carb vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or spinach to make the salad even more colorful and nutrient-rich.

• Protein options: If you prefer, you can substitute the chicken with cooked shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for some extra heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: This salad is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. If storing, you might want to leave the avocado out until you’re ready to eat it, as it can brown over time.

• Reheating: This salad is best served cold and doesn’t require reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the salad ahead of time, but it’s best to store the avocado separately to avoid it turning brown. Once you’re ready to serve, simply add the avocado and toss everything together.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

Yes! This Low Carb Avocado Chicken Salad is a great choice for those following a keto diet. It’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats.

Can I use leftover chicken?

Yes, leftover cooked chicken is perfect for this recipe. It’s a great way to use up any extra chicken you may have.

Can I make this salad without the dressing?

While the dressing adds a lot of flavor, you can skip it if you prefer a lighter option or simply use a store-bought dressing like ranch or blue cheese.

Can I use other types of protein in this salad?

Absolutely! You can use cooked turkey, shrimp, or even grilled steak as a substitute for the chicken. Tofu or tempeh would be great for a vegetarian option.

How do I prevent the avocado from browning?

To prevent the avocado from browning, you can store it separately and add it just before serving. Adding a bit of lemon or lime juice to the avocado also helps keep it fresh.

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and works perfectly in this salad. Just make sure to shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the salad.

How can I make the dressing creamier?

If you like a creamier dressing, you can add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to the dressing mix. This will add richness and creaminess to the salad.

Can I make this salad spicy?

Yes! You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or fresh jalapeños to the salad to add some spice.

How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers will last 1-2 days in the fridge, but the avocado may start to brown over time. For the freshest taste, try to eat it within 1 day.

Conclusion

This Low Carb Avocado Chicken Salad is the perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, and savory, making it a satisfying meal for any time of the day. Whether you’re following a low-carb or keto diet or just looking for a healthy and delicious dish, this salad has it all—healthy fats, protein, and fresh veggies. It’s easy to make, versatile, and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch, this salad is sure to become a regular in your healthy eating rotation!